Rocks and Reflections
10
Taranaki Yakity Yak club paddle the Dam lakes.
Jenny Harper shares the scenery and moments of
pleasure and apprehension.
Photo Essay
18
The Bay of Plenty Yakity Yak club show that “A
picture is indeed worth a thousand words”.

Speights Coast to Coast results

26

Press Release

36

What’s On

36

Emergency Outdoors -First Aid training

36

Book Review
“Hell or High Water” an
action packed white
water saga is worth a
read according to Ruth
Henderson

37

Campsite Hopping
38
Mike Scanlon and friend explore from Whitianga
to Opotiki and discover some choice spots to pitch
a tent.

Seasons Pass
12
Ruth Henderson’s secret receipe on how to have
guilt free time on the water.
White water camping
20
AUT’s Matt Barker gives tips on what to take and
how to stow it.

Thrills and Spills
14
Daryl Gibb has his share of excitement on a
journey from Clifton to Ocean Beach, Cape
Kidnappers.
Hop, Skip and Jump
22
Neil Watson has another long weekend, this time
travelling on land and sea from Tuakau to
Takapuna.

Product Focus

42

Buyers Guide

43

Kayak tuition available

48

Directory - Things to do
49
Want to hire a kayak or fancy a guided tour or trip?

9.30pm the doors and windows are wide open and
still I feel like I need an ice pack, the new dog has
been fed and the kids are asleep. Treffery is
working on the computer down stairs and I’m in my
office doing the editorial and a budget for one of
the shops.
The scene is set...

Act One
What makes me happy?

For each of the elements in Act One our friend
compares them to a stream flowing into her life,
represented by a pond. For a stream to continue to
flow the bed and sides require maintenance or it
will become blocked and slow down. The light
went on in my masculine, practical but rather slow
brain. Obviously you have to work at the important
things in your life and put continued effort, time
and resources into what makes you happy.

Act Three
Have you heard it before?

The key elements are Treffery, kids, work and the
new dog. Added to this are my father and mother,
my brother and sisters and their kids, my aunts and
uncles and their kids, mates and work colleagues,
kayaking, cooking, fishing, camping, the night sky.
I agree with the saying “a rich man is one who is
happy with what he has and a poor man always
wants more.” How blessed we are having such a
great sport to share with our kids, parents and
friends in a great and beautiful country where
dreams are free and realizable.

Act Two
How do we keep happy?
A friend who has left the light side and moved over
to the dark side (she has stopped kayaking and
taken up deep sea diving “ Ha Ha”) was telling
Treffery how she looks at life. This was then passed
on to me and I think it is enlightening.

Yeah so had I, but this example sticks in my head
and gives me a renewed focus and a huge degree
of happiness.

The final Act
I am sure that many people are very rich through
the appreciation of what they have and of how
blessed they are, to enjoy this great sport in this
great country with their families and friends.
So #@%* the weather as it is always too hot, too
cold, too windy or too wet! Get out there and be
very rich.

Happy New Year and get those streams cleared.
Peter Townend
Editor

✄

Subscribe a friend to the Kayak NZ Magazine

Overseas subscribers can make payment via
credit card number on subscription form.
CONTRIBUTORS: We welcome contributor’s
articles and photos.
• Deadline for issue 31: 10 April 2005
• Deadline for issue 32: 10 June 2005
• Text should be submitted on disk or
emailed as a Word text file.
• Photos should be emailed or put on CD as
a high resolution (300 dpi) jpg at full size
accompanied by captions. Prints should
be captioned on the reverse and
numbered and listed in text.
• All care will be taken to safeguard and
return material.
• No responsibility is accepted for
submitted material.
• Material published in the magazine must
not be reproduced without permission.
COPYRIGHT: The opinions expressed by
contributors and the information stated in
advertisements/articles are not necessarily
agreed by the editors or publisher of New
Zealand Kayak Magazine.
ALL CONTRIBUTIONS TO:
Ruth E. Henderson
ruth@canoeandkayak.co.nz
New Zealand Kayak Magazine

Very easy to remove
Simply plugs into a rod holder
If lost overboard it floats
Flexible plastic base and
fibreglass shaft
Being seen has never been easier
Available at all good Kayak stores
Includes Safety Flag & Rod Holder
email: greatstuff@graphics.co.nz

ISSUE TWENTYn

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7

M U LT I S P O R T

K AYA K I N G

Speights Coast to Coast 2005
- the toughest yet?
by Rob Howarth

The 23rd anniversary of The Speights
Coast to Coast was a memorable one;
the cloudless skies displayed the
Southern Alps in all their glory. But for
many the heat in the mountain made
this year’s event the toughest yet.
In 2004 the majority of one-day competitors were
air lifted off the mountain section due to adverse
weather conditions. River levels were rising
rapidly making river crossings extremely
dangerous, it was even snowing at Goat Pass. This
year couldn’t have been more different, river
levels were low and the sun was shining,
temperatures leading up to Goat Pass were at least
35 degrees C - It was HOT damn HOT! Of course
that kind of extreme heat takes its toll on the body
and with the exception of perhaps the top athletes
who cover the mountain stage in approx. 3 hrs,
most competitors were slower than expected and
were suffering at the end of the day!
Race Director Robin Judkins had worked hard
during the year to attract a top field from around
the world and the inaugural ‘World Teams
Challenge’ saw competitors from seven countries
pit their wits against each other in the one day
event. In the two-day teams Ben Fouhy and
Jonathon Wyatt (world kayaking & mountain
running champions respectively) teamed

8

ISSUE TWENTYn

together to take on the mighty Causer brothers.
Fouhy & Wyatt running out winners by 18 mins.
We all expected Fouhy to be quick on the river but
it was a sight to see him sprinting along the stony
bank of the Waimakarere, at Mount White Bridge,
at the tail end of the field (due to a staggered cycle
start) only to pass all but Luke Vaughn on the river!
Luke Vaughn won the individual two day event
with an impressive performance. He is a 20 year
old student with many years racing ahead of him
and will no doubt be a force to be reckoned with
in the one day race in years to come.
In The Longest Day Richard Usher out smarted the
field to claim first place whilst Kristina Anglem
(nee Strode Penney) claimed the women’s title for
the second year running with a blistering time of
12:23 finishing in 6th place overall (in other words
there were only 5 blokes in front of her!!).
But this event is not just about the supermen and
women of the multisport world, The Speights
Coast to Coast attracts competitors of all shapes,
sizes and ages. The youngest competitor this year
was 17 while the oldest 67. As a first timer myself
this year (in the 2- day team event with Gordon
Daglish) I was in awe of the fitness and dedication
of competitors, many of whom we have taught to
kayak over the past few years. For those of you
who have secretly desired to compete but thought
you were not fit enough, think again. The results
section contains nearly 900 names most of whom

ine • 2005

had little or no kayaking or multisport experience
prior to entering The Speights Coast to Coast. The
event is a personal challenge which drives you in
the months leading in, the atmosphere is
infectious during the race, the camaraderie
uplifting. It truly is New Zealand’s premier
multisport race.
Finally a special mention goes to Mark Pollock
from Ireland who entered the 2-day individual
event. Mark has been blind since the age of 19 and
was the first blind competitor to take on the
Southern Alps. The plan was to tandem cycle &
kayak and to be led up the mountain. Now, to
those of you who are not familiar with the
mountain stage let me tell you that it is tough
enough with both eyes open! Mark made it to Goat
Pass but had run out of time and had to be airlifted
off the mountain. Although disappointed not to
finish he was philosophical after the race ‘If it
wasn’t for those bloody boulders’. My sentiments
exactly Mark! If Mark can give it a go so can YOU see you there in 2006.
For more information on The Speights Coast to
Coast and kayak training packages contact your
local branch of Canoe & Kayak or log on to
www.coasttocoast.co.nz

Rebel
New, fast, funky kayak for the smaller paddler in the 50 to 70kg range.

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9

S E A K AYA K I N G

Rocks and Reflections
- Paddling those Dam Lakes.
by Jenny Harper
Labour weekend saw five Taranaki YYK clubbies (Bronnie,
Karen, Ruth, Walter and Jenny) converge on Mangakino with
a plan to paddle Lakes Maraetai, Whakamaru and Waipapa,
the middle three of the eight Waikato dam lakes.
Saturday was perfect, overcast and calm, as we paddled up Lake Maraetai,
under the HWY 30 road bridge and into the Mangakino Stream. Local
residents had previously told us about this magical ‘Lost World’. We were
not disappointed. We paddled up a drowned river canyon hemmed in
between spectacular cliffs of grey rock tinged with pink and white, clothed
with regenerating native trees and ferns.
The cliffs resulted from volcanic eruption 300,000 years ago in the Taupo
North West Bays area. Vast amounts of superheated ash, gas and pumice
swept across the land at great speed, cooling to form the distinctive, vertically
jointed rock known as Whakamaru ignimbrite, visible today. For an hour we
paddled quietly upstream, entranced by the cliffs, the unexpectedly prolific
birdlife and stunning reflections in the dark still water.
At one point we had to paddle through a ‘Sargasso Sea’ of floating lake weed,
pumice stones and discarded plastic rubbish back-eddied from the lake, a
sad reminder of human impact on our natural environment. Three kilometres
upstream from the bridge the cliffs blend into open farmland and the river
narrows into a gut leading to a rapid. We turned and drifted downstream
exploring two hidden sidestream ravines on our paddle home to the lodge.
On Sunday we paddled the lower half of Lake Whakamaru, past rolling hills,
farmland and pine forest, pockets of pungas and kowhai, under towering
volcanic cliffs. We spent this very rainy day paddling close to the shoreline
identifying native trees and plants, looking at waterfalls and searching
without success for a little lake-edge hot water spring we’d been told about.
On Monday, we drove to Lake Waipapa to paddle the Waipapa River. It enters
the lake half a kilometre upstream of the dam. From our Topo map it seemed
we could paddle quite a long way up. We launched at the lake edge, and
paddled up to and under the road bridge into the river.
Bronnie gave us a quick lesson on handling water hydraulics, and then one
by one we followed as she led the way through the fast running shallows
under the bridge. Regrouping in the still water, we paddled upstream

Dwarfed by the cliffs, Mangakino stream

alongside pine forest and native scrub enjoying the calm sunny morning, the
reflections in the water and the sight and sound of kingfishers, fantails, grey
warblers and tuis.
We had barely paddled a kilometre when the river narrowed. Eddies and
foam spirals formed in the quickening current, and we could hear a lot of
rushing water around the next bend. This turned out to be a very extensive
rapid suitable only for experienced white water kayakers. We pulled into a
little silt beach and explored alongside the rapid on foot, Bronnie and Karen
discussed ways it could be run.
Not for us sea kayakers though! We returned to the lake for a short paddle
upstream past the uninspiring bare hillsides and debris of harvested trees.
We returned to the lodge, packed up and headed for home, content with a
weekend of relaxed paddling and small group camaraderie on and off the
water.
Our base for the weekend was a 40 bed lodge at the Lake Maraetai Rowing
Club complex on the lake edge at Mangakino. It offers superb, secure
accommodation for groups at $10 pp per night, with excellent kitchen, dining,
bathroom and bunkroom facilities above boat storage and gear drying
facilities. Custodian contact is Peter Thomas, Korari Crescent, Mangakino 2391
ph 07 8828809.
I am still pondering the volcanic forces that created this landscape, and
speculating on what the cliffs and gorges looked like before the dams flooded
and drowned the river valleys of the Waikato, Mangakino and Waipapa.
The Waikato dams and lakes are managed by Mighty River Power, their
website www.mightyriverpower.co.nz includes the construction history of
the dams as well as info on lake levels, hydro spills and recreational access.
For further info on the Taupo eruptions and North Island geology,
recommended books are:“New Zealand from the road, landforms of the North Island” by R.H. Clark,
and “Field guide to New Zealand Geology” by Jocelyn Thornton.

Stopped by white water, Waipapa Stream

10

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Regrouping in the Waipapa Stream.

Fused by fire, volcanic rock, Mangakino Stream

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11

K AYA K L E A D E R S T R A I N I N G

Seasons Pass
by Ruth E. Henderson
Have you ever wracked your brains as
how to extend your occasional Day or
Weekend Paddling Pass?

the one club trip a year has steadily escalated to
three, then six, and last season leapt to eighteen.
All without a word of complaint from the nonkayaking household member.

Wrack no longer. Here is the perfect solution.
Become a leader and get a Seasons Pass. Since
kayaking is a year round sport in New Zealand,
this is in effect a yearlong ticket.

•

Part of this acceptance is due to:

It works for me. In the four years since I went on
my first trip with the Northshore Yakity Yak Club,

Firstly as a leader you get to TAILOR-MAKE
your days or weekends on the water. This
means that you can pander to your family
sometimes, and design days in which they can
participate or in turn you can support
such trips.
A few classic cases last year were: Tawharanui
Open Sanctuary base camp - some joined in
on the tree planting; Wenderholm to
Warkworth - some met for lunch in a Café;
Otamure and Mimiwhangata base camps some participants spent their days walking
and swimming, never touching a paddle;
Raglan Harbour - my beloved surprised me
and met us for dinner in a local restaurant;
Rangitoto summit for morning tea - meant we

with other folk who all know how to do a self
rescue and an assisted rescue; that amongst
the group there is a heap of safety gear - split
paddles, tow ropes, VHF’s, high visibility hats
and flags, first aid kits...

•

As the club - yours or mine gets more leaders,
other advantages occur:

•
•

•

•

A customised trip: Steph and Chris get the royal
welcome at Bon Accord Harbour, Kawau
Island.

•

•

12

ISSUE TWENTYn

•

You ‘push the envelope’ and extend yourself,
secure in the knowledge that competent
people surround you.
The safety ratio of 1 leader: 6 followers is
exceeded. On the Devonshire morning tea trip
to Rangitoto we had 44 people on the water.
This could have been a nightmare - but with
ample leaders we had 6 pods with two
leaders each. That’s 1 : 3.6. That’s magnificant.
Several trips can be run concurrently. Last
Queens Birthday weekend, we had treble
billing with three trips on, stretched between
the Waikato and Northland with between 9
and 19 people each.
A plethora of leaders on any organised outing
also means different variations on a theme
can occur on any day. The weather, surf or
swell, paddler’s ability or inclination on the
day can all be taken into account with cruisers
to racers and the bods in between all catered
for.
Great friendships develop. After spending
several days a year practising rescuing each
other in often inhospitable and cold
surroundings and conditions, you get to know
each other well.
Spontaneous teaching sessions or practices
happen. This occurred over Waitangi
weekend at Mimiwhangata when we had 33
people on the water. Clusters of paddlers
voluntarily practised rescues and rolling
every day and on the last day, those skilled at
surfing taught and supervised the rest of us.

were home for a late lunch; Kawau Island - we
invited the troops to stay the night and watch
the rugby.

As Christine Watson said after the Mimiwhangata
weekend which she and husband Neil organised,
“this was the club, operating at its best.” And my
club, your club will continue to do so, as long as
we continue to train new leaders. Hey, if someone
suggests that you come on board, DO IT, and have
a ripper of a year.

Secondly PEACE OF MIND. It is reassuring for
land lubbers to know that you are paddling

Sunday morning arrived warm and sunny with a soft breeze.
Eleven clubbies, three generations in all shapes and sizes
keenly anticipated a second chance to kayak from Clifton
round Cape Kidnappers to Ocean Beach, after bad weather
prevented our first attempt. Excitement was high. Gear was
stashed, hatches secured and equipment checked.
The surf looked civilized enough to guarantee most would stay dry when
launching. “Yeah, bring it on, we love it” summed up the mood of the group.
No doubt everybody had their own agenda as to what they would get out of
the trip: White water and open sea kayaking are adventure activities, hazards
and dangers are part of the attraction for those that undertake them. For me
‘Pushing the boundaries’ is part of the appeal, for others it is about increasing
or maintaining their skill levels and fitness or just ‘being there.’ Eighteen
kms separated Ocean Beach from our starting point. Paddling that distance
would be an achievement in itself for most in our party.

and paddled through the reef. I watched his manoeuvre, good judgement
and timing. I made the decision and judged it right as did most of the others.
A little bit of excitement goes a long way. Later on someone who will remain
nameless, told me laughingly how he almost lost the plot going through
Black Reef.
Steve, our respected trip leader made a snap decision to bypass landing at
the Cape Kidnappers rest hut a kilometre further up the beach and get past
the Cape before the wind built up. I didn’t hear him or he didn’t see me not
hearing him, or my bladder makes me go deaf. Nature’s demands don’t always
fit in with kayaking.

Steve’s Bit
We assumed Darryl was busting for some relief, but was not into relieving
himself in his kayak. He paddled ashore to the beach. We waited bobbing
about in the swells watching the waves smash up against the Panicle, a large
rock, about 200 metres off the coast. A reef runs between it and the cliffs on
the shore.

Meanwhile back to Darryl

We took the first leg, six kms to Black Reef and the famous Gannet Sanctuary
at a leisurely pace. The huge cliffs 1-2kms away watched over our progress.
At Black Reef, we were met by the strong smell of guano (bird stuff!) Colonies
of gannets nested at the bottom of the cliffs and on rocks barely above high
tide. Gannets swooped and soared, preparing for their nesting season. To
me this is one of the wonders of kayaking - being able to visit our recreational
wild lands in an unobtrusive way, having experiences not open to others.

I ended doing the perfect imitation of a Paul Caffyn landing and was readying
myself for the others to get washed up when I saw a vertical paddle dancing
up and down between the swells. I was beckoned to the fold. Mmmm, that’s
strange, wonder what they want? Paul Caffyn would have been so proud to
see my seamanship as I thrust through the waves on my way out to the motley
crew waiting patiently for me in the swell.

Black Reef reaches out to sea more than a kilometre off shore, with interesting
swells racing through gaps. Without hesitation, Gerald, otherwise known as
a powerhouse, a man who can paddle all day, and his co-pilot picked a gap

Once Darryl was back with us, Gerald and Robert in the Tandem went through
the reef while I took the others out to sea and around the Panicle. It was a
spectacular sight, the waves crashing against this huge rock. Definitely not

14

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Steve’s Bit

Darryl

Clifton

Had a fabulous trip? Captured it on camera? Do you fancy
seeing your story in print?
Check out www.canoeandkayak.co.nz for our
“Contributors’ Guidelines”.

ISSUE TWENTY

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15

the sort of place you would wish to come out of
your kayak. Back near the cliff face people
thought about their stomachs. Philip suggested a
likely sandy beach just down the coast about one
kilometre, so on we paddled.

Back with Darryl
Beneath papa cliffs a small flat sandy beach with
grassy sand dunes at one end was the chosen
lunch spot. We had one casualty during the
beachings or should I say one beaching during
the landings. During lunch the wind was
noticeably stronger...
With appetites appeased we launched for the last
leg to Ocean Beach seven kms to the south. The
wind rose some more... I was last off the beach
after helping two members get out on their
second attempts. Both were driven sideways by
the wind and rolled by the waves. The wind rose
some more! My first attempt failed miserably,
coinciding with a wave combo trickier than a big
Mac! Created by an extremely strong gust of wind
the combo bowled me. Fate for once spared me
embarrassment because everybody had gone out
beyond the breakers, even Paul Caffyn.

My second attempt succeeded.
A solid twenty to twenty five kph norwesterly
gusting regularly made things interesting. The
chop could be sudden and a metre swell was
running. I was thirty metres in front of a senior
club member when I heard a shout and turned to
see him capsize. Instantly I too was capsized by a
gust, which stunned me with its ferocity. To be
honest I didn’t think about executing an Eskimo
Roll even though I had attended two courses not
long ago. The extra work entailed by a wet exit
soon bought home how important an Eskimo Roll
technique is, especially when soloing. The wind

was blowing strongly off shore. Because I was on
the leeward side, every time I held the cockpit
combing, my boat capsized. Hanging on, I ducked
under my kayak to get to the windward side so I
could secure the cockpit with my feet while I blew
up my paddle float. Meanwhile Philip was
warming up the sea with his bare legs while
hanging on to the back of his kayak. On my second
re-entry attempt I lost my paddle float because I
hadn’t secured it to my kayak nor paddle correctly.
Mmmmm, naughty indeed. If anybody in America
sees a yellow....... This was my most serious lesson
to date and emphasised how serious the situation
was. I yelled to Phillip, 30 m away to close the gap
and raft up with me. The wind had blown us far
from the shore. Ironically it was probably because
we were too close to the shore that we had copped
that freak gust. (Having hammered through the
narrows of Lake Waikaremoana last summer in
winds much stronger without tipping I tried
analysing why it happened to me. Unfathomable.)
At one stage, I can’t remember when, I signalled
with my paddle and luckily it was sighted, just...!
I got Phillip into his kayak, and then three of the
more experienced clubbies arrived.

Steve’s Bit
I saw two kayaks upside down, and called the
group to a halt.
I told the others to carry on while Dean, Jason, and
I went to help. It was a hard battle against the wind
to get back to them. When we reached them,
Philip was already in his kayak. Jason helped
Darryl back into his. By the time everyone was
ready to paddle again the wind had blown us well
out, and down the beach. We battled back to our
get out point.

Cape Kidnappers

16

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Darryl again
The experience was nasty and showed how easily
the outcome could have been different. If Phillip
and I not been able to join and dock and if we
hadn’t been seen, the question would have been
how long can one last in a mid winter sea. The
other pertinent fact is kayaking’s greatest danger
is the offshore wind.
All’s well that ends well. Ocean Beach is a classic
long flat sandy beach, good as anywhere to walk
my kayak in.... bugger it. Paul Caffyn would
pretend not to know me I’m sure. I’ll get it right
one day. Meanwhile, I had better enrol with Steve,
my respected instructor, for some surf skills.
What did others get from this trip? Well, most
stayed comfortable and dry; but I bet some of
them thought their arms were going to drop off
and they didn’t know they could paddle so long
when feeling so stuffed; some would have been
relieved to reach the shore. No matter what, all
must have felt a good sense of satisfaction with
the day’s achievement, and I congratulate them,
especially those in their sixties, for they all
finished strongly. We were challenged. We were
rewarded.

K AYA K F I S H I N G

A Modest Fisherman
When Pablo Campano sent in a photo of what
I considered a great day’s catch I contacted him
for a possible story or further comment. He
modestly said, “It was just an average day’s
fishing. I’m still trying to get one of the big ones
aboard. That would be a 40kg kingfish. When I
manage to spear one of those giants I’ll send
you the photo.” He then added a word of
warning for wannabe kayak spearfishermen “It
is a dangerous activity to practise with care,
respect and loads of self control.”
Meanwhile, let this photo wet your appetite -

So if you are ever down in the Bay of Plenty come
and join us. Wherever we are, we’ll be having
loads of fun!

ISSUE TWENTY

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19

OUTDOORS WITH

White Water Kayak
Camping the Modern Way

by Matt Barker

Some of my favourite and most
memorable paddling trips have
involved packing my camping gear into
my kayak and heading off for a selfcontained overnight adventure.
I can remember doing this as a teenager and still
enjoy it over twenty years later. I prefer to not use
raft support as the whole party can move at the
same pace, you have all your gear with you in case
of emergencies, and you do not need to get to a
pre-determined drop off before dark. I also relish
the self-sufficiency and freedom to explore that
the ability to spend an extended period of time
on the river allows.

Boat choice
Historically kayaks were longer and had higher
volume meaning you could take more equipment
on kayak camping trips, however this space was
long and thin making it hard to pack many items
and even harder to access. Modern kayaks
actually have a lot of usable space, as they are
deeper with a lot of volume immediately
accessible just behind the cockpit. Modern creek
and river runner designs are very usable for kayak
camping, particularly with some modern
innovations in compact camping gear.

obviously there are limits and you probably do
not want to drink olive oil neat. You will use up
lots of energy on a multi-day white water trip so
things that have high energy value, for low volume
are good to take. Choose oily or fatty foods, sweet
foods and for carbohydrates, rice rather than
pasta. Modern packaging is a real boost to kayak
camping as lots of foods can be squeezed into
odd corners of the kayak, without additional
waterproofing. A few items that immediately
spring to mind are the tuna (in oil) sachets, muesli
bars and salami sticks. I usually fit into odd
corners a few items of robust fresh fruit and veg,
as these are waterproof and add variety to your
food. I tend to not take a water bottle in order to
save space, as there is plenty of water all around.
I try to find the smallest side stream to collect
water from, as this is least likely to be
contaminated, and enjoy a free supply of sweet,
fresh, spring water. In heavy rain conditions when
all the streams are running brown collect
rainwater off your tarp or shelter. Using fine riversand and water to do the dishes and using natural
materials for toiletry needs, all add to the sense
of connectedness to the land and save valuable

What to take
It is important to go compact rather than
lightweight, you really will not notice another kilo
or two in weight, but you will notice when you
can’t fit everything in. Try to make your gear as
versatile as possible; making things have more
than one use saves space and weight. Food also
needs to be compact rather than lightweight but

space in your boat. My parties usually take two
large tent fly/tarps between us, one to sleep under
and one to use as a groundsheet, with paddles
tied into A-frames, throwbags used as guylines
and kayaks as tent pegs, we can sleep groups of 8
easily even on wet nights. Some of my groups have
cooked solely on open fires to save carrying a
stove and fuel, as driftwood is very plentiful on
these wild rivers and a fire in the evening is good
for the soul.

Packing gear
You need to decide which things you really want

20

ISSUE TWENTYn

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to stay dry and pack these in good quality drybags. On my must keep dry list are sleeping bag,
beanie, fleece top and pants and a few items of
food. I don’t take a lot of spare clothes, as I don’t
tend to use them. Packing things in dry bags
wastes a lot of space so anything that does not
need to stay dry I just pack into the boat; I include
shelters, cookers and lots of food items in this list.
You can usually fit things down the side of the dry-

bags and in odd places like down the side of and
under the seat. You need to make sure random
items are not floating around in the kayak as these
can get lost and it’s important that nothing hinders
your exit from the kayak in an emergency. An
often-overlooked storage area in a kayak is the
space in front of the footrest especially with
kayaks fitted with full plate. Remove the footrest,
stand the kayak on its bow and pour in your gear,
re-fit the footrest and your gear is held in place
until you take the footrest out. I tend to put heavy
items at the front as this helps to maintain the
balance of the boat as you have greater capacity
at the rear. I try to arrange my gear so that I end
up with a conical sausage of gear that resembles
the shape of the stern end of the boat, then put
an oversize dry bag in the boat and shove the gear
in one item at a time. Don’t forget to use the
pockets of your buoyancy aid for a few items you
want to keep handy, like snacks.

Before you go
Make sure all your gear is in good working order,
do any repairs or maintenance or treat yourself
with a new one. If your current item of kit is on its
last legs, the middle of a 3 or 4 day trip is no time
to find out it will not last the distance. If you do
treat yourself, test your shiny new item out, to
make sure it works in the way you imagined. Also
get together with your party and decide what

items you need individually and what you can
share between you. There is little point in
everybody taking a cooking pot or can opener.

Motu grade 4, 3-4 days, lots of rapids to keep the
interest up and great to paddle right out to
the ocean.

Where to go

Being able to kayak camp allows you the freedom
to adventure, to see what is in this section with no
road access, to explore and extend your
boundaries of the known.

The North Island has some great rivers that can
only be paddled with an overnight stop, when the
distance between road ends is longer than a day’s
paddle. This isn’t a complete list but gives
something for every grade of paddler.
Whakatane river grade 2, access off the
Waikaremoana road.
Upper Mohaka, grade 2+/3-, 2-3 days depending
on exactly where you start, down to the take out
above the state highway 5 bridge. This trip has the
added incentive of hot pools complete with spa
pool and plumbing to relax in.
Ngarororo grade 3, two sections Boyd Hut to
Napier Taihape road bridge 2-3 days and a 2-day
section below the Napier Taihape road.

Camping out of your modern white water kayak is
possible and will open up a whole new selection
of rivers. New Zealand’s temperate climate allows
you to pack lightly and still stay warm and
comfortable. If you enjoy the simple life and are
willing to get close to nature there is no reason why
you cannot be perfectly comfortable and want for
nothing other than to hear the roar of the next set
of rapids. Give it a try; you will be rewarded with
paddling new rivers and having unique
experiences that the day-trip paddler will
never see.
Before you go however, a word of warning. Do not
pare-down or skimp on your safety and rescue
gear as an extended wilderness kayaking trip is
where you are most likely to have to be selfsufficient and sort out your own problems. Help
will be many hours or days away. These factors
add greatly to the sense of personal responsibility,
teamwork and adventure during, and
achievement and satisfaction on successful
completion of the journey.
HAPPY CAMPING!

ISSUE TWENTY

nine • 2005

21

S E A K AYA K I N G

A Hop, Skip and Jump Tuakau to Takapuna
The Waikato River was barely visible
through the winter fog when the car
stopped at the top of the boat ramp.
The temperature plummeted inside
the cabin and sideways glances
exchanged. Suddenly the two paddlers
leapt out stripped off and pulled on
their gear while the support crew
stayed warm, emerging only for a photo
opportunity. Numb fingers struggled
with zips and hat straps. We finally
pushed off from the Tuakau Bridge
boat ramp at 7.10am. Visibility was
less than 50m but quickly improved as
the sun rose to a cloudy day without a
hint of wind and even less moisture.
The river surface mirrored the clouds
and trees lining the banks.
Conscious that we had to cover over 60km that
day, including a 10km portage, we took the main
channel around Namuheiriro, Te Wheranga
Okapu and Kaiwaka No.2 Islands. The pump
station passed and we soon closed on the water-

skiing club and sand depot at the ‘Elbow’.
Downstream of the Elbow, whitebait stands dotted
the right bank. They varied from bare table sized
pontoons to large platforms with storage sheds.
The day’s catch so far was nothing to talk about,
but just being away from it all on a beautiful
morning with the dog and a few stubbies had a
universal appeal among the whitebaiters. Further
downstream the stands gave way to baches. The
standard of real estate varied enormously; from
one room shacks to more palatial permanent
affairs displaying a selection of road signs.
The boats swung around the downstream end of
the main Motutieke Island and between Puehunui
and Motukakaho Islands. Roger made a short cut
via a narrow shallow channel through Kaiwaka
Island No.1 that took us past the Awaroa River
mouth to the get out at Hoods Landing. This saved
a kilometre and an upstream paddle of about
0.5km. At 10am we arrived at the concrete boat
ramp at Hoods Landing, strapped on trolleys and
retired to the carpark for lunch. An hour later the
trolleys were readjusted to balance the kayaks
equally fore and aft before starting the 10km
portage to Waiuku. When planning the trip we
considered reducing the portage distance by
paddling up the Awaroa but concluded that
drainage and farm works rendered the river
barely navigable, even by kayak.

The put in at Tuakau Bridge boat ramp 7.10am departure.

22

ISSUE TWENTYn

ine • 2005

by Neil Watson and Roger Crum
The Awaroa portage between the Waikato River
and Waiuku via the Awaroa River was well known
to early Maori. Once traders and missionaries
introduced wheat, potatoes and fruit to the
Waikato, produce from Maori gardens was
transported by canoe down the Waikato River,
carried across the portage and onto Auckland via
the Manukau Harbour to Onehunga. In 1853, 337
canoes arrived at Onehunga during the year
carrying £3,297 of produce. In the 1870’s and
subsequent decades numerous proposals were
made for a canal between the Waikato River and
the Manukau Harbour. These were finally laid to
rest with the construction of Great South Road and
completion of the rail line from Auckland to
Hamilton.
The first 6km of the portage was straight and flat
along Hoods Landing Road and Otaua Road. We
stuck to the right-hand side, to face oncoming
traffic. The remaining 4km climbed gradually
through winding sections before descending to
Waiuku and the Manukau. We made frequent
road crossings to stay on wider road shoulders
and maintain an adequate sight distance for
approaching traffic. With more people on the trip,
groups on the road would need to be limited to 2
kayaks and well spaced to minimise the traffic
hazard. Two and a half hours after leaving Hoods
Landing, we rolled into Waiuku Township. The

name Wai-uku is drawn from local Maori tradition.
The ancestor Tamakae, used â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ukuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, a soft white
clay, to enhance his appearance and win the hand
of a Waikato chieftainess.
We reluctantly passed the Kentish Hotel, crossed
Kitchener Road to Tamakae Reserve and lunched
on the riverbank. The 95-year-old sailing scow,
Jane Gifford, was tied up to the jetty on the
Waiuku River. Her owner, a well-attired and
commanding woman, arrived for a chat. She
outlined her plan to use the scow for public
excursions. This required upgrading the jetty area
and making the channel navigable at all tides. We
wished her luck and set off on the out-going tide,
with a light south westerly and high cloud. The
destination for the night was Awhitu Regional Park
about 5km down the Awhitu Peninsula from
Clarks Beach. As the river widened, the east-west
trending valleys on the left channelled the
afternoon wind across our bows.
The chimneys of the Glenbrook steel mill furnaces
appeared on the horizon well before we passed
the mill. A shell bank on the left was crowded with
several roosting bird species. Closer inspection
caused a crescendo of abuse as spoonbills, terns
and oystercatchers rose into the air. The
spoonbills banked and returned overhead,
their distinctive bills thrust forward and legs
trailing behind.
We stayed on the left side of the river to reduce
exposure to the wind then cut across to Clarkes

Beach for afternoon tea. The yacht club entrance
provided shelter from the wind and vertically
oriented moisture. Conditions were still a bit
damp back on the water but cleared late
afternoon as the tide swept us northwards along
the shoreline of Awhitu Peninsula into the
Manukau Harbour.
The Manukau Harbour is the second largest
natural harbour in New Zealand and was once
(about 2 million years ago) a large embayment
open to the Tasman Sea. The peninsula is a sand
dune barrier formed by alternating phases of
deposition and erosion. Maori tradition records
that about 300 years ago the side facing the
Tasman Sea was a large forested sand flat similar
to the Whatipu sand flat today. The Harbour
supports a rich and diverse estuarine flora and
fauna. It is an important nursery area for fish and
a major wintering area for migratory shorebirds.
By 6.00pm with the Waiatarua masts and
Manukau Heads in sight, one of the team
conceded that we were lost. Resorting to the map
case and interpolating between two adjacent but
barely overlapping sheets, the navigator
announced Plans B and C; either paddle 9km back
to Awhitu Regional Park or 1km further to Orua
Bay. After the briefest debate, we decided on
Orua since the boats were already pointing in that
direction.The setting sun penetrated the low
cloud and turned the water into a succession of
undulating black troughs and golden crests. The
coastline on the north
side of the harbour
entrance had long
receded into shadow
when we ran out of
water 20m off Orua
beach. A jovial middle
aged
Englishman
greeted us at the
camping ground. He
was staying on site in a
campervan to look
after the place for the
proprietor. Tents were
pitched in the dark
before we retired
to the showers and
cookhouse.
The next morning was
fantastic; calm, no
wind, no moisture or
cloud, an incoming
tide, the promise of a
south westerly at our
backs and a shorter
paddle distance than
originally planned!
We trolleyed the boats
over the Orua Beach
tidal flat and aimed for
Puponga Point at the
end of Cornwallis
Beach.

ISSUE TWENTY

nine â&#x20AC;˘ 2005

23

Sand dredge, Waikato river.

Off the Point, 1m high white-capped waves
occupied the channel. This section was crossed
parallel to the waves with a few low braces in the
more turbulent bits.
In windless glassy conditions we swung out of the
tidal stream past Cornwallis Beach and northeast
to Taumatarea and Langholm Points. Roger grew
up here, spending time on the water, so he was
familiar with the coastline and harbour channels.
A lone kayaker stopped for a chat. He was out for
his weekend exercise, paddling up current to

Langholm for the morning paper.
Cloud had descended and a light south westerly
risen by the time we approached Green Bay
beach. We trolleyed the boats one at a time
through a tidal flat of soft deep black mud. A local
on the Karaka Park coastal walk remarked, “You
should have come ashore in the central area of the
beach where the sea bed is firmer.” (next time!).
We washed muddy trolleys, legs and footwear and
eased our bladders at the toilet block before
manhandling the boats up the pathway to the
south end of Portage Road.
The road was an original portage between the
Manukau and Waitemata Harbours for Maori
waka. A pa on the headland above Green Bay
Beach controlled traffic. From 1850 various
schemes were considered to cut a 2-mile long
canal between Karaka Bay (now Green Bay) on the
Manukau and the Whau River. Proposals
included cuts up to 130 feet deep with locks,
pumping stations and river dredging. As with the
Awaroa Portage, the canal proposals lapsed when
the rail line from Auckland to Hamilton was
completed in 1908.

Including an ice cream stop the portage to the
Whau River took about an hour. We were now
deep in ‘Crum country’. Roger’s grandfather in
1905 established brick and pipe works in New
Lynn. His father carried on in 1929. The business
was sold in the 1970s and Roger is now back there
short term as Project Engineer managing a plant
upgrade. CRUM bricks can be seen set in the floor
of the Arataki Visitor Centre on Scenic Drive in the
Waitakere Ranges.
The put in was on the right bank of the Whau River
immediately downstream of the Great North Road
Bridge. The river used to be navigable by small
vessels and steamers to this point, but mangrove
growth and silt now prevent this. We lunched on

ine • 2005

the grass above the bank waiting for the tide to
turn; then carefully slid each boat down the bank,
one person at the top of the bank and the other
down at water’s edge. The river is sheltered by
mangroves over its upper reaches but becomes
exposed downstream where the channel widens.
We favoured the left bank’s protection from a
developing cross wind.
A pit stop was needed at the Bridge Avenue
marina before passing under the North Western
Motorway Bridge and into the expanse of the
Waitemata Harbour. We pointed northeast above
the Motu Manawa Reserve to avoid the shallows
and set up for a surf down the harbour.
In a south westerly rising to 20 knots the boats
surfed 3km to the right of the port mark off Te
Tokaroa Reef (Meola) then lined up on the north
abutment of the Auckland Harbour Bridge for
another 3km. We passed under the bridge amid
heavy boat traffic. Briefly 2nd and 3rd in a yacht
race we were forced to give way to a somewhat
larger vessel before squeezing between the shore
and the northern bridge pier.
Beyond the bridge, traffic eased and the following
sea reduced. Sunday boaties were heading home
from the gulf or playing in the harbour. We passed
the familiar landmarks of Stanley Point and
Devonport Naval Base in quick succession. E421
(Canterbury) with its white ensign flying was tied
up at the outer wharf.
The low symmetrical profile of Rangitoto Island
slid into full view around North Head. The tide
carried us past Cheltenham and Narrow Neck
Beaches and along the Takapuna cliffs. On flat
water the kayaks nosed gently into Takapuna
Beach. A Sunday walker generously agreed to
photograph the team before we strapped the
boats on trolleys and completed the last 1km
portage home.

A Request for Your Help from the NZRCA and
the Living Rivers Coalition

Press Releases
Our rivers are under more pressure than ever
before. Even when rivers have been given the
equivalent status of a national park, a Water
Conservation Order, it does not seem to be
enough. There are many hydro schemes on the
drawing boards, some of which (e.g., the Gowan
River and Kaituna River) are unfortunately edging
closer to reality. Also, the Government has
proposed legislation that will potentially limit the
ability of the NZRCA to oppose some projects.

a proven model - for many years the NZRCA has
worked successfuly with Fish and Game and
others to protect rivers such as the Mohaka,
Rangitata, Buller and other rivers with Water
Conservation Orders.

In response to this, the NZRCA recently joined Fish
and Game, Forest and Bird and the Federated
Mountain Clubs to form the Living Rivers
Coalition (www.livingrivers.org.nz). It is a timely
development - the need for a united front has
never been stronger. The Coalition also builds on

The Living Rivers Coalition will launch its first
campaign on 22 January, a signage campaign to
highlight the unhealthy state of many of our rivers.
We are hoping that this campaign will raise
politicians’ and the general public’s awareness of
the importance of ‘living rivers’ whether it is for

What’s On
2005 NATIONAL KASK FORUM
Cobham Outward Bound School, Anakiwa,
Marlborough Sounds. Midday Friday 25 - midday
Monday 28 March, Easter weekend 2005.
The forum is based in an ideal location at Anikiwa
with beautiful bush and directly on the foreshore
of Queen Charlotte Sound. Accommodation is in
spacious bunkrooms.
Guest speaker David Winkworth will be talking of
his paddling trips in tropical Australia. David was
awarded a bravery medal for his rescue of

The Coalition was launched on Wednesday 15
December. Hugh Canard, the NZRCA’s patron,
gave a witty and poignant speech at the media
launch - it’s well worth a read
(www.rivers.org.nz/article).

kayaking, fishing, to preserve biodiversity or
scenic beauty. As part of the NZRCA’s
commitment to the Coalition, we are asking
NZRCA-affiliated clubs and/or individual
members to volunteer to be contacts or helpers
for Living Rivers Coalition campaigns (including
a campaign to save the Gowan River, protected
only two years ago as part of the Buller Water
Conservation Order). Please provide Alan Bell,
the
NZRCA’s
membership
officer
(membership@rivers,org.nz), with your contact
details if you or your club are prepared to help.
If you have any questions on the Coalition and
NZRCA’s involvement please contact the North
Island Conservation Officer, Duncan Catanach, on
niconservation@rivers.org.nz or 027-293-7014.

his fellow paddler from a large crocodile off the
North Queensland coast.

Yakity Yak Trip

New Zealand experts on navigation, tidal and sea
conditions will be giving workshops.

Hawke’s Bay Yakity Yak Easter trip to
Mahurangi 25th - 27th March. Three day
paddle staying on the Islands around
the Mahurangi area. We would love to
have some Yakity Yak Paddlers from
other areas join us.

The annual forum is a great opportunity to take
part in practical and theoretical sea kayak training
opportunities, such as paddling skills and rescue
techniques. And a great chance to see and share
ideas on equipment and try out a range of sea
kayaks.
An overnight camp out paddle to Mistletoe Bay is
planned for the Sunday night.
For more information see www.kask.co.nz

Emergency Outdoors Care
The Taupo and Hawke’s Bay Yakity Yak trip leaders
attended a course on first aid in the outdoors over
two days in Taupo. Peak Risk Management ran the
course. The instructor for the weekend was Mark
(Buggie) Woods.
Arriving on Saturday we were thrown straight into
a simulated accident near the river. As yet none
of us knew each other. We were suddenly told to
treat the victims. Mark had arranged them with
good imitation wounds such as bones sticking out
of legs and stomachs hanging out. All of us had a
little first aid training, but we were to learn
accident site management over the next couple
of days.
Buggie showing how to look after a back injury.

36

ISSUE TWENTYn

ine • 2005

The course was very good. Everyone interacted
well. Some shared explicit details of accidents
they have had, or attended. We got to watch
videos with lots of blood. We are all expert now
on carrying out a ruptured spleen operation using
our river knives and a needle with thread. Any
volunteer patients out there?
For two days we had classroom work with outdoor
simulations. We learned everything from vital
signs, CPR, fractures, head injuries to spine
injuries and dislocations. The Taupo and Hawke’s
Bay Yakity Yak kayak club members can now feel
completely safe when paddling with their trip
leaders, knowing they have the knowledge to
treat and manage most injuries until help arrives.

Book Review

HELL OR HIGH WATER

Surviving Tibet’s Tsangpo River

by Peter Heller

If you like action, adventure
and ‘tell it like it is’ stories
this book is for you even if
you are not a white water
junkie.

boat back to the right, aimed it straight down the river’s throat, and dug in.”

The style is edge of your seat
cinema graphic stuff: the reader
gets to experience the excitement,
get the pace, and feel the tension. It
is very descriptive, and even a nonkayaking adventurer would get a
clear picture of what’s going on, and
wait, heart in mouth to see what
happens next.

Paddling is only half the story: they were forced to traverse a terrifyingly
steep mountain pass of snow and ice with their kayaks on their backs; haggle
and argue with corrupt officials; stare downs violent, mutinous porters.

Reach for an atlas and you’ll see
that the Tsangpo gorge is in Mt
Everest country. It cuts through the eastern end of the Himalayas to form the
deepest, most remote river canyon on earth. Led by filmmaker Scott Lindgren
in February and March (that’s in winter!) 2002, seven of the world’s top
expeditionary kayakers paddled the furious currents and into the throat of
the gorge. They survived.
It is obvious that author Peter Heller is himself a top-notch paddler - he uses
his own experiences to shed light on the techniques, talent and skills of these
international river ‘cowboys’ and gives us ringside seats.
“Johnnie rolled up, slammed into the seething white pile of the next wave
and disappeared. He was spat out the other side and rolled up again,
terrified...Willie was cutting the air wildly, both arms up and straight, palms
facing, frantically mouthing the word CENTRE!...Johnnie growled, spun his

MAGIC

His writing also conveys the beauty, and captures the ballet of the paddler’s
movements; the grace, poise and precision and applauds it.
“When they all glide out into the glacial milk green of the final pool, they
are in sync, like a bluegrass band...the paddlers have moved beyond
athleticism, risk, discipline and sport into something rare and fine.”

Interspersed with the account of the thirty-seven day epic, there are linking
stories of explorers and naturalists of the past, and campfire philosophy.
“Modern-day adventurers do much of what they do in creation of story. The
tales pour out at the fire; they are savored and added to. One man’s episode
becomes part of another’s repertoire, and the stories multiply and
intertwine. It seems a wonderful, archaic way to live. Who lives like that
anymore? Hollywood subsumes more and more of that part of our
consciousness and lures us into the gray smog of routine, of consuming and
producing, of a mass-produced narrative. We need adventures to create new,
vibrant stories. It’s the blood of our humanity.”
The only aspect of the book I felt uncomfortable with and question its
necessity was the in-house arguments and ‘tittle tattle.’
The author obviously did not believe in the ‘what goes on tour, stays on
tour’ philosophy.
A map, photographs of the boys, and some of the action would be the only
additions I’d like to see. Perhaps I’ll have to see Scott Lindgren’s movie. All
up, I’d like to read the book again. It must be good.
Published by Allen & Unwin RRP $35
Ruth E. Henderson

by Lou Farrand
I found a way to beat the rain.
it happened yesterday.
it was raining like the devil
when I launched to have a play.

Alas it didn’t last for long,
this morning’s wet and cold.
Please God can we have some more,
before I’m too damn old.

As if by devine magic,
the rain, it did retreat.
this great big ball appeared on high
generating heat!!!

They speak of global warming.
which globe is thus affected?
surely not the one I’m on
more like, ‘’Ice age is expected.’’

I’m not quite sure what it was.
could it have been the sun?
I vaguely recollect seeing it
waaaaaaaay back when I was young.

I’m know the rain will ease off soon
it’s waiting for the day
when heaps of us go kayaking
and scare the stuff away.

Photo by David Russell

ISSUE TWENTY

nine • 2005

37

S E A K AYA K I N G

Campsite Hopping Whitianga to Opotiki
Trips are memorable for many reasons
- campsites can leave memories that
last longer than those of actual
paddling. On this trip we enjoyed some
fascinating locations - especially
sweet when taken in secret in the
midst of an unaware public.
John and I left Whitianga’s Buffalo Beach midafternoon after a long drive from Gisborne. We
had a couple of hours of easy paddling in empty
boats past the scenic Cook’s beach, rocky
coastline and the popular Cathedral Cove. At
Hahei motor camp we were reunited with John’s
wife Lynn and all our gear and food. We were
lucky to catch the toasted sandwich place just
before it closed. There are not a lot of takeaway
food options at Hahei.

Kiwi Association of Sea
Kayakers N.Z. Inc.
(KASK)
KASK is a network of sea kayakers
throughout New Zealand

Next morning saw the start of the trip proper. We
had 260 Km to go and I was feeling only
moderately confident that we would get there. Pre
trip enquiries with local paddlers indicated a
scarcity of good landings/campsites. Warnings
about the Bowentown bar at the northern
entrance to Tauranga Harbour foretold a
challenge.
We launched from Hahei into a moderate swell,
no wind, and blue skies. Great. The morning was
serendipity with rocky cliffs, coves, islands and
an awesome cave/blowhole. Our digital cameras
worked overtime. We paddled on past Hot Water
beach without landing, as the surf was biggish and
dumping. More cliffs followed, then lunchtime
saw us at the very appealing Boat Harbour. It is
only accessible by sea; has a small sandy beach
and moored boats.
There was much activity in the ocean, with big
schools of fish engaging in mysterious and
frenzied antics, plus flocks of birds sitting on the
water or flying past.
In the afternoon we passed the suburbia of Tairua
Harbour and Pauanui area, a contrast to Opoutere
Beach and its beautiful long sandy expanse,
where we landed.
Finding campsite number two was the next item
on the agenda. Behind the beach rose a bank and
then sand hills covered with scrubby bush.
Oblique enquiries indicated a DOC antipathy to
camping because of nesting birdlife. We turned
down an offer from an ‘alternative’ group of
people in a big permanent camp to join them. Our
preferred option was to surreptitiously drag the
kayaks up the bank and into the scrub, smoothing
out the drag marks of our kayaks behind us. There
we pitched our tents, unseen in some bushes. A
beautiful evening and a still night with only the
sound of the surf made us glad to be there.
Morning brought a bit of a shock. The moderate
surf was now BIG and impressive.
We studied it with care. John thought he saw a way
through between ‘lulls’.
I considered time and distance between wave sets
and saw probable carnage.
After packing up we decided on a risk reduction
strategy and dragged the kayaks a kilometre up
the beach where the surf seemed a bit smaller.
Even using a set of wheels this was exhausting.
Time to commit: John launched. After a few near

ine • 2005

by Mike Scanlan

misses he was through. I was a bit behind and got
creamed by a big wave that surfed me backwards
and over. A frustrating series of false starts
followed. Waves swept up the beach behind my
beached kayak and swung me round. I had to get
out, straighten the kayak, get back in, reset the
spray skirt etc. Finally I got off the sand but then
had to maintain position in the white water
waiting for a lull in the big sets. It took ages but
finally I got through.
The morning was lovely and fine. We enjoyed the
boost of a big following swell to Whangamata.
Here the surfers were out in force but looked very
small on the big wave faces. Our information was
that the beaches further south had dumping surf
so we decided on an early stop for the day hoping
for a dropping swell. Entry into the Whangamata
Harbour was interesting, sneaking between the
big beach break and Te Karaka Point.
Inside the harbour we pondered the options for
Campsite no.3. The motor camp was apparently
across town - no good to kayakers. There was a
very appealing area of land just beside the
harbour on the northern side - a quick kayak carry
and we were hidden away just metres from the
moored boats. With great satisfaction we spent
the afternoon lazing in the sun in our hideaway.
Next morning the swell was still big but had
dropped. We paddled out of the Harbour and
down the coast past Whitiroa to lunch at Mataora
bay. This has to be the most beautiful bay I have
ever seen. It is just gorgeous. A walk up a grassy
hill opened up views that gobbled up lots of
memory space on the cameras.
Back on the water, we noted less fish and bird life,
while the coastline progressively lost some of its
beauty to become ho hum.
As we neared Waihi Beach on a biggish following
swell our landing options were not particularly
attractive. Surf pounded the beach and a distant
area of white marked the Bowentown bar and the
northern entrance to Tauranga Harbour. There
was a Surf Lifesaving Club and heaps of people
on the beach near the bar. We imagined their
comments as our kayaks got closer to the impact
area. It was really difficult to evaluate. We
adopted a paddle-stop-look-paddle strategy
working our way further into the bar area with
breaking waves all around us.
We had decided to paddle the inside of the

Mataroa Bay

Big Surf Ohui

ISSUE TWENTY

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39

harbour rather than outside Matakana Island so
when we got to a point opposite the entrance we
headed in. A few bigger waves made us backpaddle to avoid disaster and then it was a big push
through the entrance against the strong outgoing
tide. We ferry glided across the current, landed
on the Island, relieved to have made it.
Finding campsite no.4 was the next issue. Stories
of night-time vigilante patrols in 4WD’s made us
wary of camping on the Island. Churned up wheel
tracks added to our unease, so we left the island
and paddled towards the back of the harbour
looking for a likely spot. Fosicking around along a
muddy shore we found a great site hidden under
some trees. It even had a barnacle-covered bath
for John to pose in. The evening was suffused with
the satisfaction of completing a challenging day.
Although we made an early morning start to reach
the middle of the harbour at high tide and avoid
a long drag over the mud, it was still a challenge
to find channels of water deep enough to paddle.
We kept close to Matakana Island and only had
to drag the kayaks for about 20 metres. Huge
flocks of black swans flew up as we approached
them.
By mid-afternoon we were at the Tauranga end
passing through the busy harbour entrance on
bouncy water, trying to keep out of the way of
boats powering through.

Once around Mt Maunganui we landed. People
and High Rise Buildings persuaded us that the
motor camp was not our scene. We re-launched!
Surf at the beach meant we had to take care not
to amuse the watching crowd. The beach
stretched into the far distance with flat country
behind and signalled a change of landscape for
the rest of the trip. By the time we got to Papamoa
Beach my back was cramping up. John was fine.
He had spent most of the day with his sail up
watching me paddle.

When we finally spotted vehicles we moved
closer to look for campsite no.6.

Campsite no.5 was the suburbia of the Papamoa
motor camp. While we set up our tents a dragon
lady approached to set us straight on our camping
responsibilities and the physical boundaries of
our site. I assumed she was camp staff and
adopted a compliant attitude, but John had seen
her come out of a nearby caravan and his bristles
rose.

Next day we experienced ugly ‘beaches’ and the
black outflow of the Tarawera River (thanks to the
Kawarau timber mill). Lunch was at a featureless
beach near Thornton and the Rangitaiki River
outlet. But the takeaways were good. Onward to
Whakatane, where I called up the local
Coastguard who could not see us among the
swells, even when I described where we were.
(Throughout the trip I kept in VHF radio contact
with local Coastguard operators, giving them
morning and evening updates of our progress,
and found them to be unfailingly interested and
helpful.)

That night we gorged on steaks at the local food
bar.
Next day the coastline extended in an unbroken
line into the distance. Lunch was at Newdick’s
beach just around the Town Point from Maketu.
Getting around the Point and onto the beach took
concentration. The beach was steep with dumping
surf.
The coastline from here was away from the road
and made it difficult to assess where we were.

Ohui Sunset

40

ISSUE TWENTYn

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I saw a promising spot and suggested John land
to investigate - there was no point in both of us
getting trashed by the surf. As John paddled in I
was bemused to see a TRAIN pass right through
my imagined campsite. It was surreal.
A bit further up the beach we landed and set up
camp amongst sand hills and huge lupin bushes.
Large rabbit holes abounded, and there was a
mysterious railway building with a sign ‘Hauone’.

Campsite no.7 was a cove just around Kohi Point,
between Whakatane and Ohope Beach. This is a
lovely spot but also a very popular destination via
a walking track from Ohope Beach. In the late
afternoon we sat on the beach trying to look like

day paddlers but soon got bored and set up our
tents. A vigilant local from a cliff top home
promptly arrived to do his duty and tell us we
were in a no camping DOC reserve. I regaled him
with tales of Tramping Club ethics of zero impact
camping and he finally, reluctantly left. That
evening was particularly beautiful.
Day 8 saw us paddling in mirror calm sea
conditions, although an extra large wave at 15
minute intervals kept us from straying too close
to shore. Approaching the breaking waves at the
Waioeka River bar off Opotiki, John woke himself
up by paddling through the middle of it. I didn’t

need the drama and went around. John
periodically disappeared amongst the breaking
waves but got through unscathed. He
usually does.
We landed just past the bar, with intentions of a
campsite and a short last day to Opape, but
decided that re-launching in the morning would
be a problem if the surf got any bigger overnight.
We carried on. The last 10 Km along the beach to
Opape took most of our remaining energy, but the
feeling of satisfaction when we hit the sand and
completed our trip was something money could
not buy. Our arrival completed a journey between

Gisborne and Auckland spread over the last
three summers.
Campsite no. 8 was at the Opape motor camp in
a grassy paddock with few trees and campers. It
was a million times more appealing than the one
at Papamoa.
The next morning our wives drove up to take us
home. We left in a rosy after-glow, which is still
there when I reflect on the great time we had.
Photos by John Humphris and Mike Scanlan.

• No drainage hole
• Strenghtening under flange
• Only 3 rivets for mounting,
less holes in your kayak
• Fits Great Stuff safety flag
DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS
Bay of Plenty Beach

Available at all good Kayak stores
email: greatstuff@graphics.co.nz

ISSUE TWENTY

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41

BE SEEN ON THE HIGH SEAS
SAFETY FLAGS A real recognized risk
while enjoying your kayaking is a collision with
a larger vessel. The Safety Flag will increase
your visibility to other craft extensively. BE
SEEN AND BE SAFE. Check out this latest design
that simply plug into a rod holder.
$49.95 (including rod holder) RRP

PERFORMANCE EYEWEAR AT
AFFORDABLE PRICES
Optic Nerve is the latest in sports eyewear now available
through Canoe & Kayak and other leading sports retailers
nationwide. A market leader already in the US, Optic
Nerve is set to revolutionise the eyewear industry in NZ Finally, performance sports eyewear at affordable prices.
The range includes styles for everyone from the serious
athlete to the casual participant (and the ones watching).
Polarised goggles and interchangeable styles that come
with 3 different lens tints and a hard case plus a big range
of polarized and general sports eyewear. All models have
100% UV protection, durable polycarbonate lenses with
focal point technology and guaranteed optical clarity - all
for $99 - $139!

WHEELS FOR YOUR KAYAK
Make life easy with this essential addition to your kayak.
The Canoe & Kayak Trollies are made of stainless steel so they don’t rust.
Wide wheels - they don’t sink in the sand & a dinky little stand to make
loading your kayak, the kids & your fishing gear on the trolly real easy.

Axis Goggle Polarised
$139.95 RRP

BLACK RHINO DECK
KAYAK TROLLY $249 RRP

Just out from Rasdex, these black Rhino Decks are
the perfect choice for any colour kayak.
$169 RRP

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ISSUE TWENTYn

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HEAVY DUTY KAYAK TROLLY
$349 RRP

n
i
W

an ESCAPADE Kayak
valued at $910
Name:
Email:
Address:

For more information on any of these
kayaks or equipment - fill in the form
and receive an information pack and
Go in the Draw to WIN....

EXPEDITION is designed to go fast. It is built to accelerate quickly and get

SWIFT The swift is an easy handling and stable sit-on-top, with a hull

to its top speed in a short period of time. This boat has lots of storage and is
ideal for any paddler interested in performance touring, sea kayaking and
long distance cruising.

shape similar to that of a sit-in kayak to give it greater speed. The standard
Swift comes rigged with a rudder and storage compartments, making it the
ideal craft for those longer trips or a day out fishing beyond the breakers.

system. The low profile hull of the Cobra Tourer cuts down on windage,
enabling paddlers to maintain high speed and straight tracking with easy
handling in all conditions. The integrated keel provides stability and
efficiency.

We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

RECREATIONAL AND SIT-ON-TOP
KAYAKS

SPECIFICATION
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

18.18 kg
790 mm
3.43 m
From
$895

THE EXPLORER is ideal for fishing, surfing and exploring and one of the
driest ‘Sit-ons’ you will find. Great hatches for storing your goodies
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

KAYAKS

We recommend that everybody who uses a
kayak should participate in a training
course. This will ensure your enjoyment and
safety. Ask at your nearest kayak shop.

25.90 kg
915 mm
3.81 m
From
$1095

THE TANDEM ‘two person’ is ideal for fishing, surfing and exploring with
great hatches for storing your adventure equipment. Now available with
three person option. It is often used by one person.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

FISH ‘N DIVE The ultimate fishing/diving kayak. A large well is located in
the stern and holds up to three tanks. There is one centrally located seat and
a smaller companion seat near the bow. It can also be fitted with an optional
motor bracket for an electric trolling or small outboard engine.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

15 kg
780 mm
2.7m
$469

THE PLAY is great for the paddler who wants a fun fast surf and flat water
kayak. Kids love this Sit-on as it is not too wide for them to paddle and yet
very stable.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

34 kg
840 mm
4.75 m
$1459

SQUIRT A Sit-on-Top for the family. Able to seat an adult and a small
child. It is easy to paddle and is very stable. Easily carried by one adult or
two kids.

Weight:
Width:
Length
Price:

SWING 470 PLUS A fantastic two person cruising kayak which is stable

23 kg
750 mm
3.3 m
$770

and fast. It has plenty of storage and great features to make your
adventures fun.

ESCAPEE Probably the closest you will come to finding one kayak that
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

25 kg
780 mm
4.01 m
$1039

SWING 400 PLUS Flat water cruising, well appointed with gear storage
inside. Also includes an optional extra pod that detaches, which is great for
carrying your fishing gear to your favourite spot. The pod can also be used
as a seat.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

TORRENT FREEDOM Great for the surf and the river with awesome
manoeuvrability. Excellent finish.

14 kg
700 mm
3m
$710

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

32 kg
830 mm
4.2 m
$1160

SPRITE ONE A kayak for the family, able to seat an adult and child.
Easy paddling, adjustable seat back and clip down hand grabs, paddles
well in a straight line and is very stable. Suits flat water conditions.

DELTA DOUBLE Fun for the whole family at the beach or lake.
Plenty of room and great stability.

Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

44

ISSUE TWENTYn

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We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

RECREATIONAL AND SIT-ON-TOP
KAYAKS

SPECIFICATION
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

21kg
770 mm
2.5 m
$630

WHIZZ A great multi-purpose family boat for big kids and small kids alike.
Lots of fun this summer at the beach. (Hot surfer!)
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

SPECIFICATION

KAYAKS

17.2 kg
736 mm
2.9 m
$819

36.36 kg
915 mm
5.03 m
From
$1295

THE TRIPLE is an excellent performing family Sit-on. The centre seat area
is dry with heaps of room so the kids can move and fidget without causing
the adults any concern. The centre space also allows for storage of heaps of
camping equipment.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

Five O Amazing surf sit on top fun and agile and performance orientated.

LAKE AND SEA KAYAKS
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

35 kg
800 mm
4.87 m
$2579

CONTOUR 490 This double Sea Kayak is an ideal day tourer with the
easy ability to do those weekend camping expeditions. It handles well, is
fun to paddle and has well appointed accessories.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:
Tourer
Expedition

45 kg
760 mm
5.64 m
$3379

ECO NIIZH 565 XLT This upgraded model is proving a hit with its new
lighter weight and some excellent features. We now have a plastic double
sea kayak that is great to use for all those amazing expeditions and
adventures.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

ISSUE TWENTY

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45

We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

LAKE AND SEA KAYAKS
SPECIFICATION

KAYAKS

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

KAYAKS

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:
Lightweight

28 kg
610 mm
4.85 m
$2199

ECO IPIZO 490 The ECO IPIZO 490 is a truly modern kayak that is as
unique as they come. A small keel ridge that runs the length of the hull, plus a
raked stern adds several inches to the waterline, this translates into speed,
efficiency and superb tracking. A fast sheltered water sea kayak.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

SPECIFICATION
27 kg
610 mm
5.3 m
$2550
$2820

TASMAN EXPRESS Responds to rough conditions. Its low profile and
flared bow enable it to perform well in adverse conditions. It is designed to
give the paddler maximum comfort, with adjustable footrests, backrest, side
seat supports and optional thigh brace.

storage, great features and the most comfortable seat your butt will ever
meet.

26kg
640mm
4.5 m
$1889

CONTOUR 450 This kayak is designed for day tripping and light
overnight expeditions. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great fun to paddle and handles easily.
Weight:

ECOBEZHIG 540 An enjoyable sea kayak, fast and nimble with huge

23kg
kevlar/carbon
600 mm
5.6 m
$4110 Kevlar

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:
Lightweight

25 kg
610 mm
4.8 m
$2250
$2520

PENGUIN Has all the features for multi-day kayaking with ease of
handling in all weather conditions. With great manoeuvrability this kayak is
suitable for paddlers from beginner to advanced.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

22kg
600 mm
5.4 m
$3960 Kevlar

TORRES A fast and stable sea kayak capable of handling the extreme
expeditions. Huge storage and lots of leg room.

SOUTHERN SKUA Fast, stable sea kayak. Great in the rough and in the
wind. Well appointed for expedition and day trips.
Weight:
22kg
Width:
590 mm
Length:
5m
Price:
$3110
(Freight charges may apply)

CHALLENGE 5 Slightly larger volume than the Sequel and lighter at 22kg.
A fast and stable touring sea kayak well appointed and featuring a great
rudder/steering system.

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

34kg
820 mm
4.5 m
$1690

WANDERER EXCEL A stable fun kayak which is easy to handle. This is
an enjoyable kayak for all the family.

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

26kg
580 mm
4.93 m
$2099 North Island
$2195 South Island

SEQUEL Fast, light, touring kayak suits beginners through to advanced
paddlers. The hull design allows for great handling in rough water. Well
appointed and ideally suitable for multisport training.

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

BREEZE Fully appointed sea kayak. Light weight and agile with a long
waterline giving good speed in a smaller sea kayak. Designed with the
lighter paddler in mind. Suitable for day or overnight trips. Fun in a compact
package.

Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

46

ISSUE TWENTYn

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22kg
600 mm
4.5 m
$1785 North Island
$1903 South Island

We have many more kayaks available so please ask if you cannot see what you want.

MULTI SPORT AND RACING SEA KAYAKS
KAYAKS

SPECIFICATION
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

11kg
450mm
5.65m
$2995

REBEL This new fast funky Ruahine Kayak is designed for the smaller
paddler in the 50 to 70kg range.
It is 5.65 metres long, which is half way between the length of the Swallow
and the Opus and it has a maximum beam of 450mm.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

16.5 kg
500mm
6.4 m
$3495 kevlar
& carbon
$2995 fibreglass

OCEAN X This Racing Sea Kayak was designed specifically for the “Length
of New Zealand Race” and built around the safety criteria drawn up for that
race. The Ocean X is also very suitable for kayak racing in the many
harbours, estuaries and lakes of New Zealand and lends itself well to the
kayak sections of many multisport races.

12.5 kg
450mm
5.89m
$2995

OPUS This kayak is for the competitive multisporter who has mastered the
mid range kayaks like the Swallow and is paddling the river with skill and
enjoyment. Advanced paddling ability is required to enjoy racing this Kayak.
Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

SPECIFICATION

KAYAKS

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

14.5 kg
540 mm
4.94m
$2295

INTRIGUE This kayak is ideal for the beginner kayaker who is looking for
a quick, light kayak with great stability.

elite paddler. This radical kayak is fast with considerable secondary stability
and is fitted with our new “bikini” seat. It will accelerate with ease, cutting
wave trains and eliminating rocking.

Weight:
Width:
Length:
Price:

MAXIMUS Fast ocean going Racing Sea Kayak. The broad bow allows
this kayak to ride over waves like a surf ski without losing any speed and is
easy to control while surfing. A low profile reduces buffeting by the wind in
adverse conditions.

ADVENTURE DUET This lightweight, very fast and recently updated
Adventure Racing double kayak continues to dominate adventure racing in
NZ and is very suitable as a recreational double.

and training ‘Sit -on’. It has an adjustable dry seat and a cool draining
system. Ideal for the paddler wanting a good fitness work out.

Give your specialist kayak shop a call
and talk to one of our friendly team to
help choose the best kayak for you.

Easy finance available. Conditions and booking fee applies
Please note that all prices are subject to change without notice. Accessories and hatches as pictured may not be included in price.

ISSUE TWENTY

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47

Learn To Kayak
SEA KAYAKS, TOURING AND SIT-ON-TOPS

Stage 1

WHITE WATER AND MULTISPORT

Stage 2

Stage 1

Stage 2

INTRO TO WHITEWATER

SKILLS COURSE

ESKIMO ROLLING

A comprehensive course designed to
cover the skills required to become a
technically correct and safe paddler. The
course progresses so you develop
techniques and confidence at an
enjoyable pace with great end results.
This course is run over a weekend or by
request in the evenings.

This course covers the skills required to
become a technically correct Eskimo
Roller. You increase your confidence,
allowing you to paddle in more
challenging conditions. Being able to
eskimo roll will make you a more
competent, safe and capable paddler.

A comprehensive course designed to
cover the skills required to become a
technically correct paddler. Starting off
in a heated pool and progressing
through flat water to moving water, it
allows you to develop techniques and
confidence at an enjoyable pace with
great end results.

INTRO TO ESKIMO
ROLLING

Course: 4 evening sessions
COST $200

Course: Weekend
COST $349

Course: 4 evening sessions
COST $200

COST $295

Stage 3

This course covers the skills required to
become a technically correct Eskimo
Roller. This will increase your confidence,
allowing you to paddle in more
challenging conditions.

Stage 3

Stage 4

Stage 4

MULTISPORT
On this course we continue to build on
the skills gained on Stage One and Two
Courses. Developing your skills,
technique and confidence on the faster
moving white water of the Waikato River
and progressing on to a Sunday day trip
on the Mohaka River. Includes, eddie
turns, ferry gliding, rolling, surfing and
building new skills in River Rescue
techniques and River Reading.

During this course we build on the skills
gained on the Stage One to Three Courses.
Developing your moving water skills,
technique and confidence in your Multi
Sport Kayak. We start on the Mohaka River
on Saturday and progress to the
Whanganui on Sunday for some big water
paddling. River racing competency letters
are awarded to those who meet the
standard and criteria as outlined on the
Grade Two Competency Certificate. A copy
is available from Canoe & Kayak Shops.

Course: Weekend • COST $349

Course: Weekend • COST $349

RIVER SKILLS
WEATHER & NAVIGATION
Understanding the weather and ability to
navigate in adverse conditions is vital
when venturing into the outdoors. Learn
to use charts and compasses and forecast
the weather using maps and the clouds.

Stage 5
KAYAKING SURF COURSE
Surfing is heaps of fun when you know
how. We will spend the evenings starting
off in small surf and building up to one
and a half metre waves. We will use a
range of sit on tops and kayaks to make it
fun and easy to learn. Skills to be taught
include surfing protocol, paddling out,
direction control, tricks and safety

RIVER RESCUE
This course is designed to cover likely
scenarios on white water rivers. The
course is suitable for paddlers who feel
comfortable on Grade One to Two rivers.
The areas covered are rope skills, muscle
techniques, team control, heads up, risk
management and combat swimming. Also
covering skills required in the following
situations: entrapments, kayak raps,
swimming kayakers and their equipment.

Course: Weekend • COST $349

Course: Weekend • COST P.O.A.

an ESCAPADE kayak valued at $910

For more information on any of these
courses or tours - fill in the form and
receive an information pack and
Go in the Draw to WIN....
Prize drawn on 31 March 2005

48

ADVANCED WHITEWATER
This course is designed to sharpen your
whitewater skills and start learning simple
rodeo moves. We will focus on skills such
as river reading, body position and
rotation, advanced paddle technique,
playing in holes and negotiating higher
Grade 3 rapids. We recommend you are
feeling comfortable on Grade 2+ rapids.
Ideally you should already be paddling the
mid section of Rangitaiki or equivalent.

2 hour guided kayak trip. Experience the
magnificent upper reaches of the mighty
Waikato River - soak in the geothermal
hotsprings - take in the stunning
environment... a perfect trip for all the family...

Need some excitement?? Take a kayak
down this wicked Grade II river run... this is
a whole day of thrills and fantastic scenery
down the Mohaka River.

Price: $40 adult $25 children Special
group and family rates. Call freephone
0800 KAYAKN for details.

Accommodation available to Yakity-Yak club
members and their families... Ideal for sport
and school groups... Situated on the banks
of the Waikato River our Kayakers Lodge
accommodates up to 12 people, is fully
furnished, with plenty of parking and a quiet
location.

For those who are slightly more adventurous at
heart, this is a scenic trip with the excitement of
grade two rapids. Midway down, we paddle
under the historic Betran Rd Bridge where we
will stop for a snack.

Enjoy this beautiful scenic river which
winds through some of New Zealands
lushest vegetation. Camping overnight and
exploring some of New Zealands
pioneering history. A true Kiwi experience.

Allow 2 hours paddle only. Priced at $50.
Phone: 06 769 5506

Two day trips $220.00 or
one day $70.00.
Phone 06 769 5506

A guided kayak trip round the safe waters of
the Inner Harbour, while learning about the
history of the area. During this stunning trip
around the beautiful Napier Inner Harbour
of Ahuriri, we stop to share a glass of fresh
orange juice, local fruits and cheese platter.

All this for $40 per person.
Phone 06 842 1305

Paddle to the Pub
Kayaking to a local pub is a unique way of
spending an evening, bringing your group of
friends together by completing a fun activity
before dinner and making a memorable
experience. These trips are available to
Riverhead, Browns Bay and Devonport Pubs.
COST: $59.00 each • GROUP DISCOUNTS
AVAILABLE!

Okura River Kayak Hire Company
Phone: 09 473 0036

Okura River Tours
Exploring Karepiro Bay and the Okura
Marine Reserve. Enjoy this scenic trip with
abundant wildlife and a stop at Dacre
Cottage, the historic 1840 settlers house,
which is only accessible by boat.

Okura River Kayak Hire Company
Phone: 09 473 0036

Twilight Tours
Departs from one of The East Coast Bays
beautiful beaches. Enjoy the scenic trip
with the sun setting over the cliff tops as
you paddle along the coast line.
COST: $49.00 • Group discounts available!

Okura River Kayak Hire Company
Phone: 09 473 0036
Mobile: 025 529 255

0800 529256

Mokau River

Waitara River Tours

Hawkes Bay Harbour Cruise

Interested in a great adventure on this
Magnificent River?
Give us a call and we will give you a
memory of a lifetime.
Canoe & Kayak Taupo

Sugar Loaf Island
From Ngamutu Beach harbour we head out
to the open sea to Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf
Island Marine Reserve. View the Taranaki
scenic, rugged coastline as we draw closer to
the Sugar Loaf Islands. Enjoy the seal colony
and experience the thrill of close up views of
these fascinating marine mammals.

Kayak Hire
Taupo - Open for the summer and by
appointment. Long Bay, Auckland - open
on weekends and by appointment. Have
some paddling fun on the beach or let us
run a Tour for you and your friends and
explore these beautiful areas.

Phone Canoe & Kayak
on 0508 KAYAKNZ for details

Customized Tours
• Work Functions • Schools
• Clubs • Tourist groups
Whether it’s an afternoon amble, a full
days frolic or a wicked weekend
adventure we can take you there.
If there’s somewhere you’d like to paddle
we can provide you with experienced
guides, local knowledge, safe up to date
equipment and a lot of fun.

Contact your local store
on 0508 KAYAKNZ

ISSUE TWENTY

NZKI

New Zealand Kayaking Instructors
Award Scheme
Become a kayaking Instructor and Guide.
Get into gear and get qualified!
It’s fun and easy to do.

Don’t delay phone 0508 5292569 now

Join the Yakity Yak Club
Want to have fun, meet new people, have
challenging and enjoyable trips, and learn
new skills?
PLUS get a regular email newsletter and
this magazine! Also, get a discount on
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Phone Canoe & Kayak
on 0508 KAYAKNZ to find out more

nine • 2005

49

Getting into
Multisport Kayaking?
Ask anybody who has competed in a
multisport race and they will say

One or two weekends training
Is just NOT ENOUGH!!!
We believe our comprehensive Grade 2 Training & Certification
is the best you can get.
To gain the skills to confidently paddle
on white water, you need between 3 and 8 weekends
on the water with an instructor.